Hi, recently assembled this box out of old windows for use as a small greenhouse. I have another same size window I could throw on top and have a cube, but I'm wondering if there's a more aesthetically pleasing way to make a roof. I have other windows, enough to do a typical roof with rafters, but I don't really know how.
Would I do 2 2×4 rafters on each end and then attach the window to the inside of them? What do I put in the empty space?
Thanks! Any advice or mockery welcome!
by bilferty
3 Comments
Maybe look into some plexiglass or clear plastic roofing panels. Cool idea and nice work!
Get a 2×6 and set it tall side up at the back of the box. This is the hinge part of the lid.
On the left, place another 2×6. Mark its length and cut it square to match the length of the box plus 2 inches (for drip edge). This is one of the side pieces.
Take the side piece of 2×6 and scribe a cut from one corner to the other. Cut that slowly and carefully with a circular saw or jig saw. The resulting triangles will each be one side of the lid.
Rip a piece of 2×4 in half for a 2×2 for the front. This will mount to the underside of the side pieces, connecting the side pieces and creating a place to mount the handle.
Mount two hinges to the back of the lid.
I would recommend a corrugated plastic roof panel. They’re light, the breathe and the hold up to hail. If glass is desired, it would be a single pane that will shed water. Multipane windows hold water on the muntins and rot them pretty quick.
If I were you (and believe me I’m not you),
I would build a frame with 1×2 wood and screen it in to see what I like and don’t and how it flows. Then I’d put appropriate covers and hinges on at my pleasure.